How to Install VST Plugins

Knowing how to install VST plugins comes down to two things: putting the plugin file in the folder your DAW scans, and telling your DAW to rescan. Most installers do the first part for you; the rest of this guide covers exactly where things go on Windows and Mac and how to fix a plugin that will not show up.

Quick answer

1. Run the plugin’s installer (or copy the file into the correct VST folder).
2. Note the folder path the installer uses.
3. Open your DAW’s plugin settings, add that folder to the scan paths, and rescan.
4. Find the plugin in your DAW’s plugin list and load it.

VST2, VST3, AU and other formats

Plugins come in a few formats. VST3 is the current standard, VST2 is the older version still widely used, AU (Audio Units) is Mac-only, and AAX is for Pro Tools. Install the format your DAW supports — most installers let you tick which to install. If you are unsure of the difference between VST and AU, see our explainer on mixing and mastering topics.

How to install a VST on Windows

1. Run the installer. Most plugins ship as a .exe installer. During setup it usually asks which formats to install and where to put VST3 files.
2. Know the default folders. VST3 plugins go to C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3. VST2 plugins have no fixed location, but a common path is C:\Program Files\VSTPlugins or C:\Program Files\Steinberg\VSTPlugins.
3. If there is no installer, copy the .dll (VST2) or .vst3 file into one of those folders manually.
4. Rescan in your DAW (see below).

How to install a VST on Mac

1. Run the .pkg installer if there is one; it places files automatically.
2. Know the default folders. VST3 plugins go to /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/VST3, VST2 to /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/VST, and AU to /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/Components.
3. For manual installs, drag the .vst3, .vst or .component file into the matching folder. You may need to enter your password.
4. If macOS blocks an unsigned plugin, allow it in System Settings under Privacy and Security.

Make your DAW find the plugin

After installing, the DAW needs to scan its folders. The location varies:

• Ableton Live: Preferences, Plug-Ins, enable VST folders and turn on “Use VST3 System Folders” or set a custom path, then rescan.
• FL Studio: Options, Manage Plugins, set the search paths and click “Find more plugins”.
• Logic Pro: uses AU; Logic scans on launch and runs a validation. Use Plugin Manager to reset failed plugins.
• Reaper: Preferences, Plug-ins, VST, set the VST paths and click “Re-scan”.
• Cubase / Studio One: open the plugin manager and rescan.

If you have just set up your DAW, our guide to the best free DAWs for beginners and the home studio gear checklist will help you get the rest of the setup right.

If the plugin still will not appear

• Confirm the plugin format matches what your DAW supports (Logic needs AU, not VST).
• Check 64-bit vs 32-bit — modern DAWs only load 64-bit plugins.
• Make sure the file is actually in a scanned folder, then rescan.
• Restart the DAW; some only scan on launch.
• Activate any required licence or iLok authorisation first.

Once it loads, get your levels right before you start tweaking — see gain staging explained.

Frequently asked questions

Where do VST plugins install by default?

On Windows, VST3 files go to C:\Program Files\Common Files\VST3. On Mac, they go to /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/VST3, with AU components in /Library/Audio/Plug-Ins/Components.

Why can’t my DAW find a plugin I just installed?

Usually the folder is not in the DAW’s scan paths, the format is wrong for that DAW, or you have not rescanned. Add the correct folder to the scan list, confirm the format, then rescan or restart the DAW.

Does Logic Pro use VST plugins?

No. Logic uses Audio Units (AU). Install the AU version of any plugin you want to use in Logic; VST and VST3 files will not appear.